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Secure Our Smartphones (S.O.S.)

In 2012, 1.6 million Americans were victimized for their smartphones. This is a growing epidemic affecting all corners of our nation and accounting for a majority of the robberies in our cities. These crimes have led to severe injuries and the loss of life. If manufacturers and carriers do not take immediate action, the problem will only get worse.

Unlike other types of crimes, manufacturers and carriers have the ability to end the growing number of smartphone thefts with a technological solution. The implementation of a "kill switch" would render stolen devices inoperable on any network, anywhere in the world. By eliminating the ability for the phone to be reactivated, the incentive to steal them would be eliminated.

The S.O.S. Initiative, led by New York State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman and San Francisco District Attorney George Gascón, is comprised of law enforcement agencies, elected leaders from across the country and consumer advocates. This coalition will work to urge manufacturers and carriers to deter crime, eliminate the secondhand market for stolen mobile communications devices and prevent their customers from becoming the next victims.

For the latest updates regarding the S.O.S. Initiative, follow the hashtag #SOSInitiative on Twitter.